Breaking Stereotypes: Iris Brugman on Thinking Divergently and Embracing Neurodiversity
In this episode of Atypical 9to5, host Rayna Spasova - van Aalst speaks with Iris Brugman, a talented autistic professional, social designer, and expert by experience. They explore her motto, “Finding Power in Thinking Divergently,” and discuss how it shapes her work, challenges stereotypes, and fosters inclusion in the workplace. Iris also shares her insights on the unique challenges faced by autistic women in the workforce, the importance of understanding accommodations, and the need to rethink systemic barriers in education and employment.
Listen now on your favorite platform:
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Key Moments
00:00 Welcome to Atypical 9to5
00:17 Meet your host, Rayna Spasova - van Aalst
00:52 Introduction to the podcast and guest
01:30 Iris Brugman: a journey in social design
02:32 The power of thinking divergently
04:35 Superpowers vs. powers: a deeper dive
07:28 Navigating disclosure in the workplace
21:41 Challenges for autistic women in the workforce
30:13 Balancing work from home and office
33:17 Final thoughts and advice
37:12 Conclusion and where to find more information
About the Guest
As a Social Designer and Design Researcher, Iris Brugman harnesses the power of practical research to create interactive designs. Through co-design, she dives into complex societal issues with her target audience to uncover what truly matters. With curiosity as her guide, she dares to ask questions, stimulates the senses, and turns these perspectives into interactive designs that amplify diverse voices.
From exploring how our bodies merge with technology through “Swiping Thumb” experiments to using Conversation-Soccer and Lego power pyramids for non-verbal communication, Iris demonstrates with open optimism and tangible knowledge that thinking differently truly pays off. For her, this comes naturally — as an autistic ADHDer, thinking differently is ingrained in her.
Versatility is Iris’ second nature, leading her to master design methods like immersive storytelling, speculative design, experiential design, play design, and sensory design. Beyond her design work, Iris has also pursued training as an Expert by Experience, combining her expertise in mental health and recovery with her design skills to create workshops that promote neuro-inclusivity.
Learn more about Iris and her work:
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Disclaimer:
The stories and experiences shared in this podcast are personal to each guest. Autism and neurodiversity are unique to every individual, and we aim to celebrate that diversity rather than generalize or make universal claims.